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Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ earns dual recognition in U.S. News & World Report rankings


Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ has achieved significant recognition in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings. The university has been ranked #18 in the "Best Value “ Regional Universities (South)" category, up from #21 in the previous year. Additionally, Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ has been ranked #51 in the overall "Regional Universities (South)" category.

Four students assemble a diagram of a molecule at a classroom table

This dual recognition highlights Ä¢¹½´«Ã½'s commitment to providing an affordable and high-quality education. Factors such as academic quality, student retention, faculty resources and financial aid offerings are considered during the ranking process.

"We are thrilled to see Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ recognized for its exceptional value and overall academic excellence," said Fred Whitt, Ed.D, president of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½. "This dual ranking is a testament to our dedication to providing a transformative educational experience at an affordable cost."

Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ has made a commitment to affordability in recent years. In 2023, tuition was lowered by 30 percent, from $43,000 to $30,000, and the university awarded more than $30 million in scholarships. In addition, the Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ Promise guarantees half off tuition to all undergraduates with a minimum GPA of 3.5.

"We are proud to offer our students a world-class education at a competitive price," said Leah Beth Hubbard, DSL, assistant vice president for admission. "Our goal is to make Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ accessible to students from all backgrounds and to provide them with the tools they need to succeed."

This latest rankings reinforce Ä¢¹½´«Ã½'s position as a leading regional university and further solidifies its reputation as a top choice for students seeking a high-quality, affordable education.

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